Clipper Maintenance in Warren, MI

Oiling, and how much

A few drops along the cutting teeth with the machine running, then wipe the excess off. Do this every couple of cuts, not once a month. Too much oil is a real problem: it runs into the machine, collects hair dust and turns to paste, which is what makes a clipper run hot and loud. Two or three drops is the amount.

Cleaning without knocking things out

Brush the hair out of the teeth with a cleaning brush rather than tapping the blade against a surface, which is what knocks the alignment out. Remove the blade occasionally to clear the compacted hair underneath. Spray disinfectant made for blades handles hygiene, and the cooling versions also stop a hot blade being uncomfortable against skin.

Blade alignment

The top blade should sit slightly back from the bottom blade, not level with it and not overhanging. If it overhangs, the blade can cut skin. Most machines allow the blade to be loosened, aligned and retightened with a small screwdriver. A machine that suddenly cuts unevenly or nicks skin usually has an alignment problem rather than a dull blade.

When to replace rather than sharpen

A blade that pulls hair, leaves lines after cleaning and oiling, or has visibly chipped teeth is finished. Blades are consumables and replacements cost far less than a new machine, which is why buying a clipper with easily available blades matters more than most features. Keep one spare for every machine in regular use.

Our Warren store

Our Warren store is at 27750 Van Dyke Ave in the Majestic Plaza shopping center, between 11 Mile and 12 Mile. It's open until 9 PM Monday through Saturday and 6:30 PM on Sunday, which makes it the usual evening stop for Warren, Center Line, Sterling Heights and the Oakland County suburbs off I-696. Van Dyke gets you there from the south, and the I-696 Van Dyke exit from the east or west.